The Reasons I am Brave

When 10-year-old Sophia Espiritu was diagnosed with a rare pediatric cancer, her family depended on God for hope and a chance to live cancer-free.

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“THE REASONS I AM BRAVE”

SOPHIA ESPIRITU

Sophia Espiritu: I was sitting there with my family, pinkies up, sipping tea and eating scones. The food came, course after course of mini sandwiches, endless varieties of tea, and quite delectable, absolutely mouthwatering desserts. But the ending specialty cake was out of this world, mate. It was a chocolate almond cake, with a little bit of chocolate mousse, and a striped fondant scarf. In addition, I got homemade pistachio macarons, topped with the cursive iced finishing of my name. We were having the time of our lives in Scotland, during our fancy afternoon tea, while inside Balmoral Hotel. There, famous author J.K. Rowling had finished writing one of her popular books, but I couldn’t help but think about how different our lives were just about a year before.

In March 2018, when I was nine years old, I was diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis, which is a brain tumor, a form of cancer— a cancer diagnosis that changed my whole life in a millisecond. I want to say it was scary, I want to say that it made me angry and left me depressed. What I can tell you though, is that chemotherapy is painful and super inconvenient. The needles, the poking, the metallic taste in my mouth, and the exhausting, tiring, and endless hours spent in the hospital. It was all completely draining.

I admit, I felt scared. I was absolutely stunned. But then I realized something, that no matter what would happen to me, I shouldn’t be scared, since my mom and dad always gave me a reason to be positive. My parents taught me the importance of prayer. So I asked God to make me strong. My parents made it clear that God was always with me, and I knew it every step of the way, as I felt God’s love deep inside my heart.

God’s love came in the form of kind nurses, a team of good doctors, the best parents, a really protective and supportive older brother, and good news, like when I was told my tumor had decreased in size by September of 2018, the same year of my diagnosis. That was God’s love—the love that made me stronger and helped me keep running forward.

My birthday is in December, and to get good news like that before my birthday was awesome! And I wanted to do something special, not anything particular for me, but for others. I wanted to help other children because, these past years, so many people have helped me: all of the nurses and physicians, all my family and my many friends, and most importantly—God.

So, I just wanted to be able to help and give back to everyone. So, after some brainstorming with my mom, we decided to start a Shirt and Share Fundraiser. I wanted to raise funds so that other pediatric patients could have a chemotherapy port shirt, just like mine. Because when I’m getting my treatments, I notice that there are many children who don’t have a special shirt like mine. This shirt gives the nurses easier access during chemotherapy treatment, which makes it a more comfortable experience for the patient. I know about the rough time these other patients are going through. And I really want to help make it an easier experience for them, especially since we’re all just kids—some even babies and toddlers. We don’t know how to cope with this stuff. I mean, some can’t even properly talk or read.

I created a video, the word spread,

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LIFESTYLE/FAMILY

Holbrook grl marks 10th

birthday with

chemotherapy port shirt

giveaway

and, with the help of the community, we raised enough for over 700 shirts. My original goal for myself was 30—that’s big. I’d do the math, but…hold on. Okay, so my fundraiser gave me a whopping 670 more shirts than I had ever planned or even dreamed to have.

I donated the chemotherapy port shirts on my birthday. And what many people don’t know is that the ‘share’ in the name ‘Shirt and Share’ actually means I’m also sharing my faith inside the true Church Of Christ, by packing Pasugo: God’s Message magazines and INC media cards, with the chemo shirts.

I guess people got the word about my kindness, because the amazing Make-A-Wish Foundation held a banquet for me. It was amazing. It was everything that I loved. And then, I was gifted with a trip to Scotland, where I had the best time of my young life, and ate some of the best foods in the world. The Make-A-Wish Foundation said they did all those things for me because I’m brave.

But I’m only brave because that’s what God’s words in the Bible, taught to us in the worship services, encourage us to be. I’m also brave because of my mom’s warm and supportive hugs, and the look of love I see in my dad’s eyes. But I feel really brave when I hear them asking for God’s help during our family prayers. I’m brave because I have my family and my faith. And I’m also brave because I have faith in God’s true words that I hear being taught to us by the Administration of the Church Of Christ. I feel strong when, as a children’s choir member, I sing hymns to praise and thank God.

Through this COVID-19 pandemic, though it has been very hard, it still goes to show that with God nothing is ever impossible. I’m still here, in this very moment, with God’s love still inside me which takes form in the health that He has bestowed. Sure, disasters and illnesses, like this, may happen in this world. But we should still trust the Almighty God, nevertheless. He cares for those who do not doubt Him—protecting and guiding His children.

Now, I am 11 years old. I am here today cancer-free, and with no active sign of the tumor. And I know for sure that it’s because of God; not because of my family, or any friendly doctors, and especially not because of myself, or any man alone, but because of the Almighty God, who granted me my miracle.

I Learned How to Truly Talk to God

“For me it was something I dreaded doing and it didn’t really mean anything more to me…” – Paolo Montinola

Paolo Montinola was raised in a loving and supportive home. He followed everything his parents told him to do. But there was one family tradition he thought was pointless.

Praying the Rosary

“When I was younger and I would see my mom pray, I didn’t know why she was doing it. I did what I was told, but I wasn’t told what it should mean to me. As soon as I could talk, we’d do what’s called the ‘Rosary,’ which is repetitive prayer in a pattern for Catholics.”

But to be a good son, Paolo kept following what his parents wanted him to do.

“It just… it didn’t have an effect on me. It’s like I’m just saying the same words over and over, I [didn’t] really know what the words meant; I was just taught to say them. I was never taught what it was supposed to mean, how it’s supposed to affect my life. And it’s just something we’re supposed to accept. For most of my life, that’s what prayer was, unfortunately. It was just something that I just did because I was told to.”

It wasn’t until he was in high school that Paolo learned the importance of God, true faith, and the Bible…but he learned it somewhere else.

“It’s not what I expected, because the Catholic Church and Iglesia Ni Cristo—they’re so different.”

Paolo was invited to a Bible study in the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) by a friend, and it was there he learned that the Church Of Christ believes in the Bible and that it’s the sole basis of their faith.

“I actually started thinking about what I learned and how it was different from what I’m used to. In between the Bible studies I would examine what exactly was different; how [I felt] when I was at the Bible study, and that’s where it really sparked.”

The Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) believes there is only one true God, the Father, and there is a correct way to pray.

“The minister really took the time to take care of the Bible students. After each worship service, he would sit us down and ask us, ‘What did you learn from the lesson today?’ I’ve never had that before—someone asking me what I learned and what it meant to me. Then he said, ‘Each time you come together, one of you will pray. But don’t worry, I’ll guide you through it.’”

Learning to pray the correct way

“How I learned to pray was first through our group prayer meetings. It was so refreshing because I thought that a prayer was [something] you [only] did by yourself. And there was this person guiding me on how to talk to God. I never had someone guide me that way. He sat me down and told me the parts of the prayer. First of all, make sure it comes from the heart. And that was something I never heard before. Make sure it comes from the heart. It’s different each time because you’re praying to God. You’re actually talking to Him. You’re [not just] reciting something. That’s when I really learned how to talk to God. It became more than just the word ‘prayer.’ It became conversing, and letting God know all your cares and worries, and knowing with full confidence that He’s listening.”

Paolo was faced with a big decision. Would he leave the Catholic Church behind, walk away from his family’s traditions, and risk disappointing his parents, and would he take a leap of faith? After learning about the power of prayer, Paolo decided to pray on it.

“I felt so lost. I felt confused. Am I even where I’m supposed to be? The first thing I prayed for was, ‘Show me the way. If I’m in the right place let me know. If this new church is where I’m supposed to be, let me know also.’ I prayed for guidance. I prayed for answers and I also prayed for comfort.”

God answers prayers

Paolo moved from Sacramento to San Diego. He was in a new city by himself. He was lonely and decided to attend a worship service. The moment he arrived, he was welcomed by the members of the Church Of Christ.

“I don’t know where I would be without them. I knew it was God’s way of taking care of me. I knew for a fact that God was with me at that moment. I knew for a fact that I made the right choice, that I was where I was supposed to be.”

Paolo was baptized into the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) in 2011 and has learned the true value of prayer.

“Looking back now, it’s like every step of the way, He guided me. I could keep telling myself that all these things were coincidences. But at a certain point you have to tell yourself that all these things aren’t happening just by accident. It’s because God has been guiding you. God listens to the prayers of His people”

Can You Prepare for Crisis and Uncertainty?

“When the news about the Coronavirus outbreak started to come out, I was 32 weeks [pregnant]. I was still working at that time, and a lot of things were running through my mind.”

Becoming a first-time mom was nerve-racking already for Adelfa Manguit. But the thought of starting that journey in the middle of a pandemic seemed terrifying.

“Being pregnant, my immune system was compromised, and with the little knowledge we know about the Coronavirus and the risks to pregnant individuals, it was scary.”

But she wasn’t alone in feeling scared.

In March, when news about the spread of the coronavirus intensified, so did searches about prayers.

And with uncertainty spreading just as quickly as the virus, many people were left wondering how you cope with something that feels entirely out of your hands.

Searching for answers in prayer

Maybe you tried Googling for answers? You’re not alone. According to Jeanet Sinding Bentzen, the executive director of the Association for the Study of Religion, Economics, and Culture at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, “Search intensity for prayer doubles for every 80,000 new registered cases of COVID-19.”

But people aren’t just searching about prayer, they’re praying. According to a survey done by Pew Research, 55% of Americans have prayed for the end of COVID.

Among those praying to end COVID were individuals who said they either seldom or never prayed before the pandemic, as well as people who say they do not belong to any religion.

Along with searches about prayer, the popular Bible app YouVersion saw spikes for searches for “fear not” by 299%. The coronavirus has made many rethink aspects of their life, including their belief in God and the Bible.

“I started by searching for a question I never really considered before: ‘Why does God let us feel pain?’ This is something I never considered during the blessedly few and far between moments when I was truly sick, but as this virus is happening on a global scale, I needed answers,” said Patricia Johnson, who identifies herself as a moderate Christian.

During times of uncertainty, as humans, we tend to look for answers. We look for a greater understanding of why things are happening. Many find themselves looking to God for answers. Researchers saw this type of renewed religious commitment in the aftermath of 9/11 and often during times of natural disasters.

This coronavirus pandemic was no different.

“I never really thought much about my belief in God until this pandemic hit, and then I wondered – ‘Why would a supposedly benevolent being allow something like this to happen? What could possibly be the purpose?’” – Patricia.

The pandemic shattered routines and normal lives in a way no one ever expected, leaving many in search of answers and reason.

“Literally, every aspect of our lives had to change so drastically and so fast.” – Madane Bastero, a stay at home mom from Kent, Washington a city just outside of Seattle, where the first outbreak in the US took hold.

As a member of the Church Of Christ, Madane and her family turned to the one place they knew they could find answers.

Finding Answers in A World Lacking Certainty

Twice a week members of the Church Of Christ gather for worship, and to hear God’s words written in the Bible. And while the pandemic disrupted every aspect of their lives, including their ability to gather together in the Iglesia Ni Cristo worship buildings, the ability to listen to God’s teachings twice a week was not disrupted.

It was the one sure thing worshippers like Madane could rely on.

“To be able to still worship, even if it’s at home, gave a sense of normalcy even just for a short moment.”

Even for Adelfa, who was admitted into the hospital twice before giving birth the week the state of Florida went into lockdown, the worship service was the one thing that kept her calm during an already rocky time.

Each time she was admitted, she prayed to be discharged just in time for the worship service, which illustrates just how important it was for her and her husband especially during this time to hear God’s words.

“It is so essential for us to receive God’s words because it is through His words that we obtain the hope and peace that we need. We can gain the strength and fortified faith to face whatever trials and hardships in this life. We are reminded of His promises that in difficult times His love and His protection will keep us safe.

A man and woman in front of a place of worship. A baby wrapped tightly in a blanket with overlay text Hope and Peace. — *Adelfa and Adrian Manguit at the Church Of Christ worship building in Miami weeks before the lockdown. Adelfa gave birth to a healthy baby on April 4, 2020.*

A repeating image of a man and woman smiling with overlay text, Beacon of Hope.

For Richard Carr, a grandfather from Seattle who still had to go into the office during the shutdown, the worship service served as a beacon of hope as the rising death rate in the US left little to be hopeful for.

“Every worship service has a very timely message, and even though we were not at the chapel, where we painfully longed to be, the message was not only comforting, but it was a joy to be able to listen to God’s words.” – Richard Carr, Seattle, Washington.

And for Jennifer Polintan from Rockland, New York, who saw almost every member in her family test positive with the coronavirus, the worship service was not just a source of hope, but something that bound her family together, despite being physically apart, especially when her 76- year old father was rushed to the hospital.

“Being able to connect with the worship services is tremendous. Knowing that they were in the hospital they were still able to hear the words of God and were connected through the preaching.”

Jennifer’s father recovered after being on a ventilator for 12 days. Other members of her family recovered as well. Unfortunately, her mother-in-law who also contracted the virus passed away.

A repeating family photo with overlay text that reads, Stronger.

But the same way the words of God gave them the strength to face the sickness, it was God’s words that gave her and her family comfort during their time of grief.

“There’s going to be good and there’s going to be bad. But it’s always a test of faith. I remember one of the lessons we heard, that this was a test. This was only going to make us stronger.”

What she [my mother-in-law] leaves behind to us is her faith, her legacy. She said [to us] “ I will fight but it’s not as I will but as God wills… That’s what I’m going to remember. And that’s what I want my children to remember when they wonder why this is happening.”

These individuals are like many around the world facing the uncertainty of this pandemic.

Parents trying to homeschool their kids during the pandemic. Grandparents who hoped to spend time watching their grandchildren grow up. People scared to go out because they live in a hot zone. New parents, scared of the prospect of bringing their kids in the world.

And while these ordinary people struggle with the same feelings of loss and grief, the words of God they received during the worship service offers a certainty they could not find anywhere else.

“Worshipping God gives us a sense of security and assurance that, although we can only do so much, God can do so much more.” – Madane

Preparing for the future: An opportunity to change

According to the American Enterprise Institute, 37% of Americans who believe in God say the coronavirus outbreak has made them feel closer to God. But the same researchers aren’t sure how long this renewed religious commitment will last, or if it’s just a human reaction to the uncertainty they’re feeling right now.

As restrictions begin to relax and people work towards recovering some sense of normal life, we’re already seeing searches for prayer level off after spiking in March and April.

Google Trends graph of different prayer terms. — *Source: Google Trends 5/20/2020*

Yet, ask anyone around, there are still a lot of unknowns out there.

A New York Times headline that reads, U.S. Now Has More Known Cases Than Any Other Country, along with a graph below the headline

Is there a way to guarantee that this will be the last pandemic we face? Will the economy bounce back? What will the future look like for you? How will our new normal look like a year from now? Even as we write this, a new type of unrest is taking over the headlines.

While no one can answer these questions with 100% assurance, the words of God can help us face these unknowns and whatever else the future holds, knowing you have the ultimate guide directing your life.

Why do we feel such strength and comfort as we offer worship? Jesus said this:

Verse graphic that reads "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 NIV

That’s how Madane is making it through. She is thankful for the preparation she receives in the worship service for whatever may come up next in our very uncertain future.

“Thinking back to the [Biblical] lessons before this all took place, they were all so timely. I know there is no such thing as coincidence, I know God was preparing us for this. I also knew that the [Biblical] lessons being taught during these times will address the things we are experiencing and that’s exactly how it’s been.

The [Biblical] lessons have made it “easy” to live through all this scary stuff. I didn’t need to search anywhere else outside the [Biblical] teachings of God taught during the worship services.”

A repeating image of a family with overlay text that reads, Lessons. — *Madane and her family after attending a worship service in Kent, Washington prior to COVID and shelter in place.*

Is this a wake-up call and who is it for?

Some say that this pandemic is a wake-up call—an opportunity for us to reassess our lives and the paths we’re taking. If you’ve gotten this far, perhaps the wake-up call is for you?

Perhaps you’re looking for a way to prepare for the next crisis that comes your way. It doesn’t even have to be another pandemic, a natural disaster, or something big. There are so many difficult things to face in life, perhaps next time you won’t have to go through it alone.

If you’re ready to find out how learning God’s words can help you face whatever life will bring, get in touch with us on incmedia.org, and let’s talk about it.

About the Writer:

This blog was co-written by Renezen Benedicto with biblical support by Bob Pellien, a minister of the gospel of the Church Of Christ.

Renezen is that introvert you probably saw in the corner reading articles on her phone. She worked in Human Resources for over 8 years until she found her true purpose of sharing God’s words to people around the world. When she’s not on her computer or her phone, she’s usually out running in San Francisco or trying something that makes her uncomfortable, like socializing and boxing.

Bob has been an ordained minister in the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo) for over 30 years.

Live Stream Worship Service Brings Hope

Through the live-stream worship service, members were reminded to be more prayerful, especially during difficult times, and to always rely on what God can do for His people.

See how members of the Church Of Christ in places most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic find inspiration through the preaching of Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo.

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Live Stream Worship Services Brings Hope

[On Screen text graphic: On April 26, 2020, the Executive Minister of the Church Of Christ, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, once again led the Church Of Christ members in a worship service through videoconferencing.

Brethren from around the world took part in this worship service from their respective households.

Many of those in attendance were from places in the USA that were severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.]

Sister Nicole Mayao: Since I am a healthcare worker, I firsthand see how many deaths happen. The total death toll now here in the United States is over 50,000 and I believe more than half of that is here in New York alone. It’s natural and normal for us to feel saddened by everything that is happening around us, but our Executive Minister, he thought of us and he knew, he knew how much we were struggling and he knew that we needed to feel the love of our Almighty God and that is exactly what we all feel here today.

Brother Mark Sanchez: The Church Administration has been very supportive with our government in fighting against the spread of Covid-19, so we are temporarily conducting our worship services in our home through the means of our internet using video conference applications.

Brother John Peralta: Nowadays, you know, there’s always bad news around the corner. In the middle of the week, at the end of the week, we listen to the words of God which give us new hope, which reassures us all the more to brave this world longer and to endure in our faith.

Sister Gabrielle Vu: I was very fortunate tonight that I was able to hear the words of God coming from the Bible, taught by Brother Eduardo V. Manalo. Tonight we were reminded that we should be all the more prayerful that even when we face difficult times, even when these trials are so big, we don’t rely on ourselves, yet we put our full trust in our Almighty God and what he can do for us. I have nothing to fear when God is on my side.

Sister Nicole: What I learned from the Bible-based lesson preached by our Executive Minister⁠—if God is with you, he will help you in times of need.

Sister Khaeyo Villaruel: No matter what happens, I will always remain inside the Church Of Christ and I will always remain holding my duties.

Brother Alwin Guingab: To our beloved Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, I’d like to say, thank you for the lesson we received today and for your continuous love and your guidance to us during these times.

Sister Gabrielle: Thank you so much for being the frontline of our faith. We love you very much and you’re constantly in our prayers.

Brother David Garcia: I just want to say that we love you so much from New York. We appreciate what you are doing for us and we love your efforts and sacrifices you’ve done for us despite these trying times. You have always shown us your care, you always pray for us. Through good or bad times, you’re always there for us, Brother Eduardo Manalo, and we love you so much.

[Show closing]

Worried about the future? Trust God Instead

Three Lessons I’ve Learned Through Trusting God

I haven’t been able to turn away from the news about Covid-19. The images of empty cities in Italy, the long lines at Costco, and the maps showing the spread of the novel coronavirus is like watching an episode of the show “24” except the antidote doesn’t show up within 24 hours.

It’s no wonder people are in a panic. Even now as people talk about recovery and trying to go back to normal, scientists are quick to point out the risks.

Times like this give us two options: worry and panic about what will happen, or trust God in all circumstances. One may come naturally. The other is something we need to learn.

Learning to trust God in all circumstances

I have always heard the reminder to trust God. In worship service lessons, the Bible verses read remind us to trust God. Don’t worry. Don’t be anxious.

But like we were recently reminded in a worship service led by the Executive Minister, while we live in this world tough times and challenges will continue to come in our lives to test us. It’s not a one time test, nor is every test the same. But one gives us an opportunity to prove our faith and trust in God.

I was 20 years old, and in my third year at San Francisco State University when I faced one of the biggest tests in my life. Up until then, my biggest dilemma was whether or not I’d get to go to college away from home.

That all changed with one Friday morning. I got a phone call from my now brother-in-law that my dad was in the hospital. He had a massive heart attack, and I needed to go home right away.

I ran to my car, and before setting out to drive home to pick up my stuff to go to the airport, I said a prayer. I pleaded to God to just make everything okay for my family.

At the airport, I called to check-in, and my grandma broke the news.

My dad didn’t make it.

That day was one of the worst days of my life.

Applying the lessons I’ve learned from the Bible

Your worst days, the moments when life doesn’t turn out the way you expect, when it seems like nothing good could come next, when it’s easy to think that God has left you—those are the best days to learn what happens when you trust God.

But I have to admit that was not my first reaction. I was in shock. I asked why. I wondered what life would be like without my dad.

Renezen as a high school graduate with dad. — My dad and I before my high school graduation.

But I also grew up hearing the lessons in the worship service in the Church Of Christ about having faith and how God will test your faith. And how tests are a way to prove your faith.

So I changed my prayers. And slowly my prayers went from questioning what will happen to us now to asking God to take care of us. From demanding why this happened to my family to asking for the faith to understand. That’s when I started to see God’s plan for our life.

When I look back at this moment in my life, I know that losing my dad gave me the opportunity for me to see first hand what God can do when you put your trust in Him.

Lessons I’ve learned when I’ve trusted God in difficult times

1. God’s answer isn’t always what you ask for. It’s better.

I could never have prepared for my dad’s death, and for a few days, I couldn’t really see past it. When we’re going through something bad, it feels almost impossible to see the end. And honestly, it’s only impossible because you’re trying to do it without God.

I remember walking around on my parents’ street wondering, what happens now? I even asked a friend, whose dad just passed away months before, what it was like to live without a dad. He didn’t have answers, and neither did I.

What I did have, though, was my faith. I just kept praying, pleading, and placing my trust in what God could do. And I waited for hope to appear.

And it did.

Two days after my dad died, my family and I went to attend worship service. My mom performed her duties. My sisters sang in the choir. My mom said we all had to go back to our lives, even if it was hard.

At that moment, I could already see God directing our lives through the strength my mom showed us.

And now when I look back at it, I can say God was already taking care of me even at the moment I found out my dad didn’t make it.

But the worst is never the worst.

Illuminated sign “everything is going to be alright”

When you’re in the thick of it, it’s easy to get stuck thinking about worst-case scenarios. You imagine all the things that could go wrong, and you get stuck. I’ve learned in instances like this, it’s essential to pause and listen to God’s answer.

A parent dying can seem like the worst thing that can happen. And having gone through it, it’s pretty unimaginable. At that moment, it was easy to get stuck on all the worst-case- scenarios, even trying to imagine what life would be like post-dad was hard.

There’s this Bible verse I’ve heard in worship service that helps me look beyond that moment.

In Lamentations. 3:28-33 & 25-26 MSG:

²⁸ When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. ²⁹ Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. ³⁰ Don’t run from trouble. Take it full-face. The “worst” is never the worst. ³¹ Why? Because the Master won’t ever walk out and fail to return. ³² If he works severely, he also works tenderly. His stockpiles of loyal love are immense. ³³ He takes no pleasure in making life hard, in throwing roadblocks in the way: ²⁵ GOD proves to be good to the man who passionately waits, to the woman who diligently seeks.²⁶ It’s a good thing to quietly hope, quietly hope for help from GOD.

And little by little, we saw God showing us that this moment of sadness was not the end of the world for us. In fact, we saw how even when God takes away a blessing, He also has the ability to give you more blessings, if you pass the test.

My siblings and I graduated from university and got careers. There were weddings and births. My mom has eight crazy grandkids, and more importantly, each one of us leveled up in our faith. My mom became a deaconess, my brother is now a head deacon, and his wife and kids are Church officers. My sisters and their husbands all have duties inside the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo), along with their kids. I ended up working for the media department of the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo) creating content for incmedia.org to help introduce the Church Of Christ to many more people.

*Visiting houses of worship in North America while shooting the show Blueprint for incmedia.org. (Ewa Beach Museum on the left and Las Vegas house of worship on the right)*

Since losing dad, I learned that every problem will try to break you. But if I face each loss, disappointment, or heartache with the teachings of God in mind then I can rise above any situation as a better Christian. It’s easy to become paralyzed by fear so I’m thankful for the strength, peace, and guidance I receive in the worship service and the privilege to serve God.

2. God’s plans are always for the good, even when you don’t see it right away.

On rare occasions, I think back and imagine what life would have been like if my dad was around still. How would he have felt walking my sisters down the aisle? Would he think it was funny that half of his grandsons have a variation of his name? Rey, Raymond, Rayden… Would he and my mom just spend their retirement traveling around and visiting us kids?

Grandkids with grandma and a 2020 sign. — *My mom with the grandkids.*

But I try not to think about the what-ifs as much. Instead, I focus on how the experience has bonded my family. I remember a year after my dad passed away, I got into a car accident that totaled my car. I was okay, but I didn’t have a way to get home for the Turkey holiday, so my siblings and my mom all drove four hours in holiday traffic to pick me up and see if I was okay.

Even now, with all of us grown up and living in different parts of the US, we are in constant contact. We support each other and look forward to every opportunity we have to be together as a family.

Life isn’t always easy, but when I look around at my family, even now when it’s just through Skype, while everyone is sheltering in place, I am reminded of that prayer in the car when I got the call, and I see God’s answer to that prayer each time.

3. Trusting God in good times and in bad

It’s hard not to feel a little bit of fear watching the news. Seeing the death toll rise. Feeling that sense of uneasiness not knowing what tomorrow will be like or if everyone in my life will be okay. But when feelings like that creep in, my experience has taught me that the best response is to pray and trust God.

It has gotten me through each time.

Couldn’t find a job after college? Pray and ask God for help. Heartbreak? Pray to God for comfort. Worried about being away from family? Pray to God together and ask for His protection. Laid off from your job? Go to the house of worship and pray to God for the faith to trust in His plans.

And so on days like the ones we’ve been having, I am reminded of another Bible verse I’ve heard numerous times during a worship service about waiting for God.

Every time I hear this Bible verse in the worship service, I am reminded that to love God isn’t just something you can just proclaim, as a true Christian— it’s about action. It’s about doing what God wants. And if I follow what God wants, then I can be confident that in all things God will work for the good.

And as a minister pointed out to me long ago, it’s not a promise that everyone has, but as a member of the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo) it’s a promise given to me.

Worried about the future? You always have options.

When life gets hard, we always have two options in how we respond, panic and worry or put our faith and trust in God. If you want to learn more about what it means to put your trust in God or to talk to a minister of the Gospel about how the words of God can help ease the uncertainty you might be feeling right now, set up a time to talk.

This blog was written by Renezen Benedicto with biblical support by Richard Juatco, a Minister of the Gospel of the Church Of Christ. She is the second child of Rene and Zeny Benedicto and the aunt to eight nieces and nephews.

Richard Juatco has been an ordained minister in the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo) since 2014.

The Type of Prayer that Heals the Sick

What does the Bible say about praying for the sick? While not all doctors have a cure, there is a prayer for healing. Learn how to pray to God for healing.

Show/Hide Transcript

Brother Bob Pellien: Hello everyone, and welcome to this program, The Message. You know, because of everything that is happening in the world nowadays, dear friends, you know, people are… they’re frantically searching for answers; searching for solutions; searching for that vaccine or antidote to this disease that is claiming the lives of so many all over the world.

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Brother Richie Juatco: In fact, the pandemic has gotten so frightening that people who may not be so religious now, are searching for: ‘prayer for healing’, ‘how to pray to God for healing’, ‘what does the Bible say about healing?’, ‘what does the Bible say about prayer for the sick?’.

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[Screenshot source: cruxnow.com]

Googling ‘prayer’ has skyrocketed with coronavirus spread, expert says

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Results page for ‘Prayer’

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20 Prayers to Pray During This Pandemic

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‘Prayer in the Time of Coronavirus’: LA parishioners worship in mostly empty pews

Brother Bob: I’m Brother Bob Pellien.

Brother Richie: And I’m Brother Richie Juatco.

Brother Bob: Today we’re going to find out: are there instructions from the Bible that one needs to follow so that they could receive healing; they could receive comfort; they could receive guidance from God in their lives during these times of crisis. Thank you all for being with us. Thanks for joining us as, together, we tackle all of this in this special episode of The Message.

[Show open]

Brother Bob: Dear friends, today we’re asking in our discussion, according to this book, according to the Bible, how can a person receive healing in a time of sickness? Brother Richie?

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THE TYPE OF PRAYER THAT HEALS THE SICK

Brother Richie: That’s what we should be asking now, because time and time again, the Bible has been proving to contain the truth. Because God’s words, written in the Bible, they do come true. So we do want to know, what does it teach regarding healing those that are sick. Many are getting sick from this virus pandemic. So we want to know, according to the Bible, are there instructions one needs to follow to receive that healing?

Brother Bob: And you know Brother Richie, some might be wondering, are the prayers of just anyone and any way, are those the prayers that God will hear and send healing for? How is it that one should pray? Are there any instructions and guidelines regarding procedures or proper prayers that God would answer? And this is probably one of the most important questions: where can healing be found in the first place?

You know these are all valid questions being posed, mostly especially nowadays. And many people are searching on the internet trying to find the answers to these questions. And their contained right here in the Holy Bible.

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[Screenshot source: christianpost.com]

Google searches for prayer ‘skyrocket’ amid coronavirus outbreak: report

Brother Richie: Well that’s true. Since they’re searching the internet to find what’s in the Bible, we can help our friends.

That question that you asked, “Where can biblical healing be found? Well, we can read that here in what’s recorded in 1 Corinthians the chapter is 12 and the verse is 28 this is what it says:

And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.

[1 Corinthians 12:28 New King James version]

Brother Richie: Here we can see the Bible does mention where God appoints the gifts of healing along with the apostles and other teachers of the gospel, together with the Administration of the Church (and those that help them), miracles and the gifts of healing are all appointed in the Church.

Brother Bob: Brother Richie, dear friends, we have to point out, we have to acknowledge that’s not a small or trivial detail that you just read there, Brother Richie. Because… and dear friends, we have to dive much deeper into that biblical Church where all these things have been placed. Because they were all placed, healing being one of them, all placed inside the Church. We need to delve into that deeper Brother Richie.

Brother Richie: You’re right, Brother Bob, and we will. We will. We’ll go deeper into that. But right now, because we’re discussing specifically the gifts of healing, since the healing was a gift given to the Church, well what instruction does God have for those in the Church regarding being healed if they’re sick?

Brother Bob: I want to read that from the writings of apostle James. He gave the instruction in James 5, I’d like to read verse 14:

Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.

[James 5:14 New King James Version]

Brother Bob: So here, dear friends, there were instructions that are given by the apostle James here, for those that are sick. In fact, three things were mentioned regarding what is needed for those who are sick.

Brother Richie: Yes, and the first was to call for the elders of the Church.

Brother Bob: Dear friends, we just want to reiterate how the Bible is teaching about singular church. He did not say “Call for the elders of just any church” or “call for the elders of ‘churches’” plural, no. He said, “call for the elders of the church” singular. And by the way, Brother Richie, what’s the purpose of calling the elders of the church?

Brother Richie: Well from what you read, Brother Bob, they will pray over the ones…the one who is sick and anoint him or her with oil, in the name of the Lord.

Brother Bob: So then dear friends, there will be a prayer conducted for the one who is sick. And this is one of the things that many people are searching for. Is that one of the things that you’re searching for? You need prayer for healing? You need prayer for comfort?

Well, that’s one of the things that, maybe not only you, but in fact, many are searching for now. And it’s not only a prayer, though, that was mentioned here by the Apostle James. A prayer, but also the anointing of the oil by those who are authorized to anoint oil for the sick and the Bible mentioned them there. They are the elders in the Church.

So fear not, your sickness can be healed.

Brother Richie: Now Brother Bob, some of our viewers might be wondering, “Who are they? Who are the elders of the Church [that] the sick should call upon so that they could be anointed and prayed for?”

I would like to answer that question by reading the answer here in 1 Peter, the chapter is 5. We’ll read from verses 1 and 2.

So it says this:

The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am i fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, servings as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;

[1 Peter 5:1-2 New King James Version]

Brother Richie: So here apostle Peter, he’s addressing the elders of the church. Because we’re asking, “who are they?”, and he clarifies that they are the ones serving as overseers. So for example, ministers, bishops, deacons, deaconesses…

Brother Bob: What are those ministers, and deacons and such…what are they overseeing?

Brother Richie: Like what we read, they are overseeing a part of the flock that’s entrusted to them.

Brother Bob: But you know some of our viewers at this point might be wondering, “I thought that those that are appointed to pray, and do the healing, and the anointing of the oil and such…they’re appointed in the Church. Now you’re saying that they’re appointed in the flock. Do you mean to say…” or maybe some are wondering, “Do you mean to say the flock and the church is one and the same?”

Brother Richie: Well the apostles made clear that the flock is the Church. That’s written in Acts 20:28.

Brother Bob: And which church is the biblical church, Brother Richie, that is referred to there as the flock, wherein all of these wonderful gifts of healing and such, that our friends watching our program so dearly need nowadays?

Brother Richie: Brother Bob, it’s better to just read that verse.

I’ll read Acts 20:28, it says here:

Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.

[Acts 20:28 Lamsa]

Brother Bob: So dear friends, the Church then, where the gifts of healing are placed; the Church where the sick can call upon the elders; the Church where the elders will come and pray and anoint oil, that flock, that church is the Church Of Christ.

God pours His blessing of healing and comfort there inside His Church, the Church Of Christ.

Brother Richie: Exactly, Brother Bob. And it is there that we can see prayer is essential. Prayer is an essential component in order to receive the healing needed for those that are sick.

Brother Bob: Well what kind of prayer, Brother Richie? Is it just… this is also very important. Is it just any prayer? Because many of our viewers are saying, “I’ve been praying. I’ve been praying. My mother is sick. My friend is sick…” you know, so are we clear here, dear friends, what kind of prayer heals the sick?

Brother Richie, are there any specifics about the kinds of prayer that will really be effective?

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Visit incmedia.org and make an appointment to speak with Brother Bob Pellien

Brother Richie: There is, Brother Bob. And we can continue reading from verse read earlier, James 5:14, we can continue in 15 to answer the question, it says:

And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.

[James 5:15 New King James Version]

Brother Richie: So the prayer of faith is what will heal or save the sick. We’re learning that although the instruction is to call upon the elders, and pray for them, anoint the sick, well it’s not the elders or the oil that heals them, but rather it’s the faith in the prayer.

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Visit incmedia.org to make an appointment to speak with Brother Richard Juatco.

Brother Bob: So that’s the specific nature of the prayer. It has to be a prayer of faith, it’s not just any prayer that would bring upon the healing for those who have sickness.

What is the faith that one should have then, when they pray and ask for healing, or ask for anything, for that matter? Because there [are] a lot of different faiths in a lot of religions nowadays, right, dear friends? Everyone knows there’s faith in Protestantism, Catholicism, people have all kinds of different faiths. So what is the faith that one should have when praying?

Brother Richie: Well, we already specified that it’s not just any religion, or any church by that matter. All these things that we’re learning they’re appointed in the Church Of Christ.

Brother Bob: Brother Richie, let’s, all the more specify what is the faith that one should have in the Church? When it says a prayer of faith…a prayer of faith in the Church when praying for healing, what is being meant there, a prayer of faith that one should have in the Church?

Brother Richie: So I’ll go ahead and read the answer recorded here in 1 Peter the chapter is 2, we’ll read verse 9, it says here:

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

[1 Peter 2:9 Amplified]

Brother Richie: Here we can that the apostles, they’re addressing those inside the Church. The faith is that they are the chosen, dedicated nation of God. His own special people. This faith should be possessed by a person who is praying to God for healing.

Brother Bob: So it’s not a…a prayer of faith is not just one whose faith is “God exists” or that “Jesus is the savior” things like that. But rather the prayer of faith is that they need to believe in the importance of being chosen and being amidst the dedicated nation of God, His Church. Which is, we’ve already read, is the Church Of Christ.

So then, Brother Richie, can any one of our viewers joining us in our study for today, can they just simply choose for themselves and decide, because maybe they’re listening along and say, “Okay! I’m a member of the Church Of Christ, therefore the appointed healing should be with me. If I pray then I will be healed. Can anyone simply choose for themselves, Brother Richie, and decide for themselves, by virtue of their own personal belief that they are [in the] Church Of Christ? Is that the way to do that? Is that the way to become part of the nation of God in order to receive the healing that God promises to His nation?

Brother Richie: That’s a very good question, Brother Bob. I would even add to that question. You know, for those that might think that they can just choose for themselves. If it is a prayer, does our Lord Jesus Christ have a special instruction on how that prayer to God is done? Now both of those questions we can answer in this one verse.

Here in John 15 the verse is 16. Our Lord Jesus Christ says this:

You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.

[John 15:16 New King James Version]

Brother Richie: Here, our Lord Jesus Christ clarifies that those inside His Church do not merely choose themselves to be in His Church. But rather, they are chosen. Here we can see the type of faith and humility required to benefit from the blessings that God has appointed in the Church.

Brother Bob: You know, He’s also instructing, Brother Richie, that when praying and when asking the Father for anything, the Lord there said it should be done using His name. Only those in His body can use His name. Of course. That’s why at the end of every prayer, members of the Church Of Christ, the body of Christ, when we pray, we always pray in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. And that’s what we do when we ask God for healing. We do so by asking Him through His Son, our Lord Jesus.

Brother Richie: That’s right, and Brother Bob, I’d like to pose this question just in case there are those that might be thinking it. Because as those that are listening to us they might say, “Well you already mentioned if the prayer of faith will already save and heal, and if the anointing is already established for the sick, then why do we have to pray to the Lord God for healing?” Because there’s something that we need to understand, clearly understand, whom we firmly believe heals the sick. Who is it, Brother Bob?

Brother Bob: Yes, because there may be those who are thinking that it’s the oil, or it’s the elder who is doing the healing. And so, let’s just make sure that that point is clear as it should be. We do so by turning to the book of Psalms chapter 103, verse 2 and 3 wherein it says this:

Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,

[Psalm 103:2-3 New King James Version]

Brother Bob: So dear friends, clearly it is the Lord God that is ultimately the one that is healing the sick.

Brother Richie: But Brother Bob, does that mean that it’s wrong, that we shouldn’t consult doctors, or even take medicine?

Brother Bob: No no, of course not Brother Richie, because as we have learned that in healing the sick, God always uses instruments. Like as we read earlier, He has people call for the elders of the Church, anoint oil. He’s not against doctors, He’s not against using instruments to bring about the healing. But the point is they have to be in the place where He is sending the healing.

It’s like this Brother Richie, you cannot have a hospital for example, let’s use the analogy right, you can’t have a hospital that has all the medicine that will heal the particular sickness that you need and you cannot say, “Well I’m going to go to that hospital. I’m going to stay in my place and not go there.” And then expect that you’ll be healed with the medicine that’s only being dispensed from that hospital.

God promised His healing in the Church. So people go there to receive the healing that God promises. And if God uses the instrument of doctors, medicine and prayer of faith, and the anointing of oil, and the Church elders, well those are all instruments of God. And we must go to where He has promised to issue the healing that comes only from Him.

There are some instructions though, Brother Richie, that are also contained in the Scriptures, right, that we need to know in order to benefit from the gifts of healing that we’ve been reading about in the Scriptures.

Is it—because you know, there [are] always those who will say [they] believe it’s accepting themselves as a Christian and such, and that’s what will enable them to pray. And that’s what will enable them to be healed when things take place. Is it just simply believing? Is it just simply having faith? Is it simply just praying, Brother Richie?

Brother Richie: You know your question, “Is it simply just praying and believing?” We can use a biblical event, Brother Bob, we can refer to that when God, He actually did send a disease on the land. And it required something in order to be saved from it. We’ll read that from Exodus chapter 15 and we’ll read here in verse 16:

and said, “If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you.”

[Exodus 15:26 New King James Version]

Brother Richie: God Himself, He laid out conditions in order to receive His protection and His healing power.

Brother Bob: He clearly did in the verses you read there, Brother Richie, and it’s easy to notice. His instruction was not simply, “Just believe. Just have faith. Just toss out a prayer.” No. He said diligently heed His voice, or hear His commands. Therefore one needs constantly [to] be taught God’s commands. Because one cannot follow God’s commands and adhere to them in their life if, in fact, they have not been taught them.

Brother Richie: That’s right, Brother Bob. And just that, right, you said that condition, if one isn’t meeting that one condition, they’re not constantly hearing God’s commands then they’re not going to be eligible for the healing that He’s offering.

Brother Bob: Do they need only to hear? Do they need only to listen to God’s commands? Is that what you’re saying?

Brother Richie: Not only that, from what was written, it’s not only just hearing, right? He said that we need to keep His statutes, or we need to do them. We need to actually put them into practice, we need to obey His commands.

Brother Bob: And by such obedience, in implementing the rules, so to speak, God’s commands, well then that would be proving one has a true faith will be within the confines of true faith and then their prayers will be heard.

Brother Richie: That’s right Brother Bob, it’s only then that He would protect those praying to Him for safety and healing.

Brother Bob: So here, dear friends, we can see the reason why God had His words and commandments written down and recorded in the Bible that we are reading from, here, so that His people would know. His people would be able to understand the conditions that He has set that are necessary to be fulfilled.

Dear friend, we want you to be healed also. God wants you to be healed but it’s not whimsical. He has instructions that are needful to be fulfilled. And we want that for you. So that’s why, what God is telling us in this tragic times of this pandemic, by means of His recorded words here in the Holy Scriptures, it’s really so very very important. A question to you, my friend, are you willing? Are you willing to hear it? So that you could be in that position, or in that condition to be healed, or to be comforted and to have fear removed, and such things like that.

What does the Holy Scriptures tell to us, Brother Richie? What is recorded there that we can read to our viewers, during this time of this great pandemic that can help them now take action?

Brother Richie: We’ll read God’s recorded words and advice for our time, very applicable for our time.

Here in Proverbs chapter 4 and the [verses are] 20 to 22:

My child, listen careful to everything I say. Don’t forget a single word, but think about it all. Knowing these teachings will mean true life and good health for you.

[Proverbs 4:20-22 Contemporary English Version]

Brother Richie: God truly is very loving. He’s very caring. He actually wants to give us good health. He wants to teach us the meaning of true life that’s why we need to learn, and we need not to forget His words.

Brother Bob: So Brother Richie, as we already have mentioned earlier, all of these blessings, healing and such, and promises and instructions, they are those that have been brought into the nation of God, the biblical church that we read, the Church Of Christ.

So, Brother Richie, how about those who are joining us in our program right now? And they’re not members of the Church Of Christ, but they too want to be healed. They too want to be comforted, they want to be relieved of the anxiety and the worry about their financial circumstances once this is all over. They’re worried about their children, they’re worried about their elderly parents and grandparents. How about those who are with us right now, Brother Richie, in this program that are not yet members of the Church Of Christ?

Brother Richie: For those listening, for our friends, right now that are listening that are not members of the Church Of Christ. But you also want safety, you also want protection, you also want God’s healing power. The Bible does have specific instructions to receive that.

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Visit incmedia.org and make an appointment to speak with Brother Richard Juatco

Brother Bob: Yes, and that instruction is so important, Brother Richie, especially for those who may be thinking, “Well how could I be healed? How could I have my prayers answered? Based on everything that I just heard in this study my prayers won’t be heard, I can’t ask for healing. I’m not a member of the Church Of Christ. So therefore there’s no hope for me.” No, dear friends. There definitely is hope.

Brother Richie what about those who are asking, how can they be safe in the midst of all this? When in fact, they’re not a member of the Church yet. What does the Lord instruct them to do?

Brother Richie: Brother Bob, here’s the hope of what you are mentioning, that the Lord Jesus Christ instructs.

Here in John the chapter is 10, the verse is 7 and 9:

“So Jesus spoke again: ‘In very truth I tell you, I am the door of the sheepfold.’”… “I am the door; anyone who comes into the fold through me will be safe. …”

[John 10: 7 & 9 Revised English Bible]

Brother Richie: So we can see the safety that is needed, and not just safety from dangers of this physical life, but especially for salvation at the end of the world, on the Day of Judgement. Our Lord Jesus Christ is saying come into the flock or the sheepfold, and you’ll be safe.

Brother Bob: As you read earlier from Acts 20:28, Brother Richie, that flock was identified as the Church, the Church Of Christ. And it was our Lord Jesus Christ who is teaching that for ultimate salvation all we need, we all need, rather, to come into the body of Christ, into the Church Of Christ.

That’s why dear friends we so dearly want to invite you to join with us serving God faithfully here inside the Church Of Christ.

We may not be able to invite you to join with us in our congregational worship services right now, in our nightly Bible studies right now, but by means of video conferencing. You can see the email address there on your screen, you can write to us, and we promise we will respond and hopefully you’ll be willing meet with us in a video conferencing where you can pose questions and we can share with you additional information about the Church Of Christ that has been introduced to you today. The place where you can be healed from sicknesses, comforted in times of trouble.

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Visit incmedia.org and make an appointment to speak with a Minister of the Gospel

Brother Bob: Family crises comes, God will be there filling your home with the power of His Spirit and comforting those [who] may be losing their jobs right now in the midst of this pandemic. The fallout, let’s call it, from this pandemic. And when this social distancing, even Brother Richie and I, as you could see, we’re implementing the government mandated social distancing. He’s there at home, I’m here at home. And we’ll continue to do this and reach out through video conferencing until such time that we’re able to meet you face-to-face. And we would look forward to that at the house of worship that is nearest to you.

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[Screenshot source: nytimes.com]

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Brother Bob: Brother Richie, when they respond, and write us to that email address below, what will be their experience?

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Brother Richie: You know, Brother Bob, despite what’s going on, the experience that those [who email] will have, if they reach out, will [let them] realize that we’re available. We are available in spite of the problems, in spite of our situation. We want to help those that are reaching out, and we promise that whatever question you have, [the answer] won’t come from off the top of our head, [be] our opinion, [or be] what the majority thinks. As you have been able to hear, we will simply find the answer for you, and read it to you. Because that is the hope that you need, the words of God written in the Bible.

Brother Bob: Thank you, dear friends, for joining us in our discussion. We hope it’s been beneficial for you. And let’s have a concluding prayer before we close off today.

Prayer: Merciful Father, thank You for giving to us this opportunity to meet with our viewers by means of the video conferencing, by means of this broadcast program, The Message. May Your blessing be upon us, dear Lord. May Your words penetrate the hearts of all who hear them. May it inspire them to join with us inside Your nation, Your Church in these last days, the Church Of Christ. So that they could pray, prayers that will reach to You in the kingdom above. They could pray prayers that will bring healing in their lives; bring solutions to problems and troubles that come.

Lord, we leave all things in Your hands with firm conviction and trust You will continue to pour your abundant loving grace upon Your nation. Together we thank and praise You, all in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

How Do I know God Is Listening To My Prayers?

Prayer is such an important aspect of our lives. It helps us find courage in times of need. It gives us that boost of confidence and reassurance that we’re not alone in what we’re about to face.

I remember when I was 14 years old, and it was my first day at a new school. Our family had moved into a new house in a new neighborhood far away from where I grew up. I had no friends to sit with during lunch, and no one to walk beside on the way home. But what I did have was my prayers. Every day I would sit in the library, eat my sandwich, and pray for Him to stick by me.

For all of us, prayer is needed not only during these small quiet moments in life—we pray right before some of the biggest ones, too. We pray before entering into all kinds of high-stress competitive environments. We see athletes pray before a big sporting match, and performers pray before taking center stage. Even pro-gamers pray.

And it also allows us to find the small pockets of peace that we need to help deal with our hectic lives. According to research, prayer and meditation help enhance self-awareness and focus. It’s like our secret weapon in fighting whatever the world has to throw at us.

But sometimes, it can feel like our prayers go unanswered. Like the world around us is beating us down, drowning our pleading voice. With every prayer unanswered we tend to lose belief that we can do better and be better. We begin to forget or take for granted the things that matter most because we’re frustrated by the silence. And, eventually, we start asking “Is God even listening to me?” Or, “Why hasn’t God answered my prayers?”

Some have blamed God for not answering a prayer.

We need it, but does prayer work?

It’s gotten so bad that some people have not only started to give up on prayer but have given up on believing that God exists. Many have grown up in households where parents don’t believe in God, so they ask, “Why bother praying?” Others who did grow up in religious homes have stopped having faith altogether. Worse of all, some have blamed God for not answering a prayer for something important, feeling like He didn’t save them from the repercussions of a bad decision they’ve made.

I have some good news for you. Prayer does work. It really does.

Well, if you’re reading this right now, I have some good news for you. Prayer does work. It really does. And studies show that most people believe there is a higher power up there watching and guiding us. But the key is in order for Him to hear us, we need to know what kind of prayer He will listen to.

Not all prayers are the same.

That’s right, not all prayers are the same, and not all prayers will be answered if you’re not praying the right way. So let’s go down the list of some of the reasons why God might not be answering you, based on what I’ve learned in group Bible studies.

1. You’re asking for the wrong thing.

“And when you ask, you do not receive it, because your motives are bad; you ask for things to use for your own pleasures.” James 4:3 GNT

Just because it’s something we want doesn’t always mean it’s something we need. And God always knows what we need, because He’s always looking out for us. So the next time we get on our knees to pray, make sure it’s for something that will bring us closer to God and benefit us in our spiritual journey.

We begin to second guess the answer God gave us which can lead to second-guessing if prayer works.

2. Your prayer was answered, you just don’t like the answer.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV

Face it, sometimes we pray for an answer, for a sign, for some divine guidance, and the prayer is answered! Sometimes almost right away. But when we see it in front of us and realize that this is what God wants us to do, we refuse to accept the answer. We begin to second guess the answer God gave us which can lead to second-guessing if prayer works because we never get the answer we want. We analyze the wording of our prayers, too, hoping to find a loophole to what we prayed for and how we said it in order for us to justify ignoring the answer we got.

The absolute best place to pray and build that relationship with God is within a house of worship.

3. Your relationship with God needs work.

“The Lord is close to every person who calls to him for help. The Lord is close to every person who truly worships him.” Psalms 145: 18 ETRV

Like any healthy relationship, our relationship with God needs constant effort. We have to be willing to not just ask Him for things but show Him our willingness to sacrifice and obey His teachings. And while we can close our eyes and pray almost anywhere, the absolute best place to pray and build that relationship is within a house of worship, during a worship service. It is there that we can truly connect with Him and His teachings and where we can openly and honestly plead to Him and let our worries be known.

This right here is an answer to your prayers.

Your prayers were answered, you just didn’t know it.

If you’ve gotten this far in the blog post, and are taking the time to truly find out why God hasn’t answered your prayers, it’s apparent that you value establishing a true and long-lasting relationship with God.

And with that relationship comes the right to pray to Him and worship Him in truth along with others who feel and hope and yearn for the same things you do.

I eventually graduated valedictorian at the new school I moved to when I was 14. I was surrounded by friends cheering me on as I accepted my award, and in my speech, I remembered to thank God for answering my prayers, and for always being by my side. So this right here might be an answer to your prayers, it’s what you have been searching for all your life.

Don’t let your future prayers go unanswered. With that said, I leave you with one last Bible verse I learned in a worship service, Psalms. 37:34 TLB:

“Don’t be impatient for the Lord to act! Keep traveling steadily along his pathway and in due season he will honor you with every blessing,…”

1. Psalms 37:34 TLB with a clock and a pink and blue background.

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About the Author:

This blog was co-written by Martin Zerrudo with biblical support by Richard Juatco, a Minister of the Gospel of the Church Of Christ.

Martin Zerrudo is a Producer at INCMEDIA Services, a lifetime gamer and a Christian. He currently hosts a podcast called “Heart & Soul” tackling subjects regarding Christian relationships and Christian living.

Richard Juatco has been an ordained minister in the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo) for five years.

Where Are They Now? The Lasting Impact of the Executive Minister

The Lasting Impact of the Executive Minister

For the last five years here at INC Media Services, the producers and writers set aside time from the months of June and July, to gather heartwarming and uplifting stories we hear in relation to the interaction of our brothers and sisters in the faith, and our Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo.

The producers and teams get together to discuss the best of the best stories. As we hear the stories of how God has worked miracles through the Church Administration we get goosebumps, some of us wipe away tears, and there’s a lot of “imagine that!” or “wow!” whispered.

This year we started with a simple question—which is your favorite Blessed Moment? I’m on #TeamBecerril! Long story short: an elderly Mexican couple met Brother Eduardo in California, happy tears ensued. Brother Eduardo’s next stop was Mexico City, Mexico—their home! Will he see them there? At first, no. But then, the love and concern of the Church Administration overflowed (so do my tears. Each. Time.), and the Becerrils made it home, for the first time in over 10 years to see their Church in their homeland. My heart.

What’s your favorite Blessed Moment feature? If you’ve watched the series, you probably have a favorite one. And this year, on top of bringing you more of these Blessed Moments, we’re looking back at some of our favorite stories and moments with Brother Eduardo V. Manalo and asking—“Where are they now?”

MYLA CUNANAN

The girl who needed a hug, a prayer, and also a transplant

Myla was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and has always been open and honest about the struggles in her health, and the strengths of her faith—because, for her, they come hand in hand.

Her mother, Leyna, once prayed during the depths of Myla’s sickness, “Please God, is it okay if you still give her to us?” As a mother, when you hear those words come from Leyna herself, it’s like the oxygen gets sucked out of your lungs. But that low point didn’t last long.

During the 50th Anniversary in the West Celebration, Myla was discharged from the hospital with barely enough time to make it to the Golden1 Arena in Sacramento. But she made it. She got to celebrate God’s victories in His Church in the West, hug Brother Eduardo, and he even prayed with her family. From going into cardiac arrest multiple times to stabilizing and just being on dialysis—her family knows that Myla’s struggles aren’t over, but that because of prayer her health will never be a hindrance to her faith.

Some updates on Myla, from her mom Leyna:

Myla has been singing in the Children’s Worship Service Choir and performing as a secretary in her local congregation of Alameda in Northern California. She was able to perform in the recent Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service in the choir and had enough strength to walk the processional hymn all the way to the choir loft. She gets stronger every day.

She loves to cook Filipino food now!

During the recent Momentous Evangelical Mission held in her district, she invited the whole dialysis unit where she receives treatment!

Just recently, she marked the 5th anniversary of her bone marrow/stem cell transplant, and as a celebration, we will be volunteering at a bone marrow donor drive at the University of California, San Francisco.

One month after her prayer with Brother Eduardo, she was on stage at Dreamfest 2018 (a concert benefiting UCSF Hospital, where she was a patient) accepting the Colin Powell Medal of Courage Award for all of her strength not only as a patient, but for her efforts to get more Asian donors registered as bone marrow donors.

A group of five individuals on stage with a jumbotron behind them projecting their image.

Her recent bone marrow drive was a great success! She was able to inspire more donors to register and was featured by ABC7, who joined her at her re-birthday celebration.

A special message from the Cunanans to Brother Eduardo V. Manalo:

We would like to greet our Executive Minister, “Happy 10th Anniversary!”

We love you so much!

Myla still needs the perfect kidney transplant and is patiently waiting and praying for it. Keep up with Myla’s Journey for all the details on her search for a compatible donor.

A family photo of 5; two children wearing cream choir robes. Facebook post of the Asian American Donor Program.

ANGELINE DOE

The little girl who recovered

Little Angeline was confined to the hospital with bone-marrow cancer and retinoblastoma, a cancer of the eye. But her father was determined to bring her to the Pastoral Visit of the Executive Minister in Athens, Greece.

When the doctors objected, he said, “I’ll carry her.” Oh, the strength of a father—body, and spirit.

She was prayed for by Brother Eduardo and immediately her parents saw God’s work first hand—an improvement in her demeanor. The doctors saw her cancers receding.

And update from the Doe family:

Every 6 months Angeline receives a check-up and her white blood cell counts are still zero. She is growing up healthy! We thank our Almighty God for this miracle that He has done in our life.

A mom and two daughters in a car smiling.

Next month, she goes to school!

We were able to travel to Rome, Italy for the Church’s 25th Anniversary of its establishment in Rome and once again we were able to have a prayer with Brother Eduardo for our daughter’s health. Glory be unto God!

A family of 4 posing: two daughters, mother and father.

A special message from the Doe family to Brother Eduardo V. Manalo:

To Brother Eduardo, we would like to greet him, “Happy 10 Years!” of his dynamic leadership inside the Church Of Christ. Thank you, for inspiring us. Thank you for caring for us. Thank you for loving the Church. May God continue to bless you and your family, may God continue to bless you with long life and strength, and may He protect you every day. We love you and we are always one with you. Thank you for praying for our family!

We learn in the Bible that faith can move mountains. It’s a hard concept to grasp when looking at the height of a mountain. But for Angeline, faith moved not just one mountain, but two. Two cancers in one small body; now gone. Her father might have carried her with all his strength that day, but her Father in Heaven has carried her every day since.

LIAM ANG

The offering of a child

Inside the Church Of Christ, when we have children, we pray for them—but more than that, we promise to God to be their protector, their caregiver, the ones who will bring them up in true faith. This prayer, which is a prayer of offering, is done during congregational worship services inside the Church, with the laying of hands by a minister of the Gospel.

The Ang family was so thankful to God for another healthy baby boy, so naturally, the time came to offer their child to God. The timing happened to coincide with the Pastoral Visit of the Executive Minister and dedication of the newly renovated house of worship in nearby Bakersfield, California. The parents requested for the offering to happen during that congregational worship service. What were the chances that during an already special worship service, this extra special prayer would also be able to happen? Apparently, 100%.

A couple holds their newborn son who is being prayed over by the Executive Minister.

The parents’ dreams came true—not only was Liam Ang offered during a special worship service led by Brother Eduardo, but when the moment came, it was Brother Eduardo himself who stepped forward and raised his hands over the child and conveyed their prayers of promise. There wasn’t a dry eye in the entire chapel.

“This is what we want Liam to understand—that you weren’t offered by just anyone,” Liam’s mom Eunice said at the time — but by the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo.

Update on little Liam, from the Ang family:

Liam is now three years old and has grown to be a witty, sweet and caring boy with so much fascination for animals, most especially dinosaurs.

Even before he could talk straight he was able to name different kinds of dinosaurs. Recently he has learned how to swim, and ever since he has started to talk he would never fail to pray to our Lord God even with just a few words every night before going to bed.

A family of 4 posing in the snow; 2 boys, mother, father.

A special message from the Angs to Brother Eduardo V. Manalo:

With heartfelt thanks and praises to our Almighty God, our entire family greets our

beloved Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo on the occasion of his 10th year of successful, dynamic and truly blessed leadership of the Iglesia Ni Cristo. Our dearest Brother, you are God’s instrument for all of the Church’s triumphs over the years. We will continue to be in union with the Church Administration; the same faith we shall continue to teach our children together with living a Christian way of life as we wait for our salvation. May our Lord God always bless you with good health and wisdom as you labor day and night to lead us towards the perfection of our faith. We love you so much.

A family of 4 posing in front of a “We Are One with EVM” poster.

If Liam is anything like my son, one day he might not know all the dinosaurs’ names anymore. He’ll look back and roll his eyes at his childish delights that we find just oh so cute right now.

But no matter how old Liam gets, where life leads him, the paths he takes, and in the presence of, and distraction of his own family that he’ll start one day—do you know what he won’t forget? That the first act of faith in his life was presided over by none other than the Executive Minister Brother Eduardo V. Manalo himself.

MARTIN OLIVER GALICIA

The young man waiting for his calling

It’s not very often you find a nine-year-old boy who already knows what he’d like to do with his life. But that was Oliver—he had just one short moment with Brother Eduardo during a Pastoral Visit in Bangkok, Thailand in 2011, and with so many questions that his curious mind wanted to ask, he only managed to ask one: “What can I do now, at this age, to help become a Minister”?

A boy getting an autograph from the Executive Minister.

Most adults would probably sarcastically chuckle when a child declares their life’s ambitions at such a young age. But Brother Eduardo didn’t dismiss his goals and eagerness, he smiled at him and said, “Well, that depends on if God’s going to call you.”

So Oliver has been waiting for his heart to feel that calling, to feel that undeniable pull into the holy ministry that thousands of men have answered in recent years inside the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC).

He’s been waiting. Currently, studying in the Philippines, here’s an update from Oliver:

I was waiting for God’s call and it did come—it came like a great wave, through words from ministers telling me it’s a good idea that I entered a Filmmaking course. I wanted to help the Church and share my faith through the media. With an extra gift from God, knowing the Thai language, that may one day help spread the words of God in Thailand. The course I’m taking is digital filmmaking and I’m on my second year here at a college in the Philippines.

The duties I’m performing in the Church are Secretary, Children’s Worship Service officer and I am currently attending classes as a student to become a Children’s Worship Service teacher (how to preach the words of God to young children), while I continue my studies in college at the same time.

Holding a sacred duty inside the Church is not an easy task. It takes a lot of time management to balance what we prioritize in life. This for me is very important because the value of holding sacred duties in the Church is one of the greatest things in life. So is staying active in serving our Lord God.

A group of 3 young people standing on the street with an INC house of worship behind them.

A special message from Oliver to Brother Eduardo V. Manalo:

Thank you, Brother, for throughout your leadership and guidance you continue to remind us how thankful and prayerful we should be. My family and I continue to pray to Our Almighty God to give us the strength and faith that we need and continue to bear fruits, and share our faith to others so that they, too, may attain salvation.

I imagine my eight-year-old daughter, not much younger than Oliver was when he first met Brother Eduardo, and I think of all the other eight and nine-year-olds I’ve known and met over the years. Oliver’s maturity at that age is truly unique. I know he was waiting for a calling, waiting for confirmation in his heart. I can’t wait to (God-willing) hear about the day he’s a full-fledged Minister of the Gospel, in line to speak with Brother Eduardo again, and I hope that same smile appears on both of their faces—them knowing together what it feels like to know God’s purpose for your life.

_________________________________________________________________________

The impact of the Executive Minister’s visits, the concern we feel from him as INC members aren’t quantifiable. He is often described as the guardian of our faith—he is that, and so much more.

Brother Eduardo,

When we hold up signs on which it is written, “We love you!”—we mean it.

When we put up a banner on which it is written: “Thank you for your visit!”—we mean it.

Angeline’s father carried her to you. Myla’s mother wheeled her to you. But their stories have become all of our Blessed Moments.

Naomi De La Cruz is a staff writer at INC Media Services, a mother of two, trafficker of books, lover of outdoor urban adventures and a baptized member of the Church Of Christ since 1998.

Daughter of a Filipino OFW Learns a Lesson About Coping

A daughter of an Overseas Filipino Worker, longing for her family to be together, receives a lesson from the Executive Minister that will remain carved into her heart.

Show/Hide Transcript

Kaithe Fadreguilan: Not every situation has to be understood by an individual. But in these times when it is hardest to give thanks, I closed my eyes and prayed. That for once, I will not ask for anything, but to thank God for keeping my family together.

[Show Open]

[Video Montage of Sister Kaithe Fadreguilan and Vietnam]

[Music]

[On-Screen text graphic]

Kaithe Fadreguilan

Meycauayan, Bulacan

Kaithe Fadreguilan: Hi, I would like to share my story after listening to the lesson of the Executive Minister. I’m Sister Kaithe Fadreguilan from the Local Congregation of Meycauayan, Bulacan.

[On-Screen text graphic]

Vietnam

Kaithe Fadreguilan: I had moved from Vietnam after nine years, back to the Philippines in order to study in university.

[On-Screen text graphic]

Philippines

Kaithe Fadreguilan: Returning back to the Philippines was one of the hardest things I had to do, because my family of three would be separated from each other. My mom and I would head home and my dad would have to stay abroad. Throughout my studies, at most times, I wished that our family was together. But my everyday routine of studying would often take these worries away. I always let it settle in the back of my mind. It was only this summer that I realize the sadness of not having my family together all the time returned. Every time I performed my duty as a choir member, my prayers were filled with the request that one day my family would be complete again.

Kaithe Fadreguilan: I felt regret and pain that I may be the reason to why my family was not complete. Because I chose to study in the Philippines instead of staying in Vietnam. During the Thanksgiving, it was when the sadness got worse. But in these times, even when it’s the hardest to give thanks, I closed my eyes and prayed. That for once, I would not ask for anything, but to thank God for keeping my family together and giving us everything we’ve always asked even when we’re not together. During the lesson, one of the most important lessons was carved into my heart. It was the statement of the Executive Minister that not every situation has to be understood by an individual, instead we must trust God. Whatever sadness I felt, I should not force myself to understand it but I should trust God.

Kaithe Fadreguilan: Every trial one will go through they may never understand by the individual at the moment, but God has a reason.

Kaithe Fadreguilan: And my prayers changed. They changed from, “Please help me understand what I’m going through,” to, “Please give me the faith and strength that I need to go through this trial.” And when my prayers changed, my perspective in life changed. It pushed me to do better and everything that I was doing and to constantly perform my duty with zeal and fervor. I realized the particular sadness was just part of the journey and it’s just part of all of the trials that I would go through in life. Because even during this trial and after, I will constantly rejoice; it’s just right to rejoice in God.

Kaithe Fadreguilan: And to Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, thank you for always providing God’s words which is the food of our souls and gives us the strength to live day by day through our problems and troubles. Your love and great intention to bring every member of the Church Of Christ closer to God is felt in every worship service and every live streaming of your visitations throughout the world. May God bless you and further you in your duty. We thank you greatly for your unwavering love for the Church Of Christ. We love you po.

The Long Road To Finding Authentic Prayers

Every morning, Greg Chirsan has a routine. It’s a routine that took decades to get right.

“I know my day hasn’t started until I pray to God first. Prayer is equal to breathing and eating—if I took that away from my life it would be like fasting forever or not drinking water for months.”

1. Man praying while sitting in the pews of a worship building

Growing Up in the Jewish Faith

Growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in a Jewish family, prayer was a part of life. But even as a young boy, he knew there was something still missing from it.

“Judaism is a very ritualistic religion. I had a big attitude that I was a Jew and I was one of the chosen people, and actually, I had trouble in my life when I was in high school when I was in the Navy. With this kind of attitude, you know, I was taught we’re separate from everybody because there’s like Jews and Gentiles and those are the people that live on the earth. I didn’t go to synagogue anymore for years and years and years. So it was more like an attitude than a practice of religion.”

As time went on, he began to resent this religion he was born into. It was the 1970s, and he was in a stage of exploration. So he was on to the next religion and ended up exploring different ones, some of which were not based on Christian teachings.

Disappointed By Religion

Although he prayed five times a day in his former religion, he never really felt the benefits of prayer. After spending much of his time and his life in two different religions, he was disappointed. Then, an unexpected meeting with a member of the Church Of Christ brought him into an interesting conversation about the Bible.

“(He) started telling me about stuff in the Bible. There was something a lot different because actually there’s stuff in the Bible that is taught by the true religion that you can’t get anywhere else. So he started showing me verses in the Bible, and I kinda knew that this was the real thing.”

After two months of engaging conversation with his friend, he finally agreed to meet with a minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ), which was intense.

“I got really angry. I was yelling at (the minister), and saying what I knew from my former religions and all that stuff, and it was like the last little hold I had on that religion.”

But despite the heated conversations, Greg got clarity and soon found himself attending the Bible studies in the Long Island house of worship, completely enthralled with what he was learning.

Bible being held while people are listening

“When I started attending the Bible study, it blew me away, every Bible study. And the way I look at the Bible studies, even if you’re a lawyer, for example, a lawyer goes on evidence to prove something. So when the minister says the topic of the worship service or the topic of the Bible study, and then let’s say, ‘Who is the true God?’ and then he reads the ten or fifteen verses in the Bible that show who the true God is, you can examine evidence and see if that’s the truth or not.”

For once, Greg found something that was not just about routine or tradition.

Learning How to Pray

“I knew that I was, for the first time, hearing the true words of God and [it was] not a ritual or just going through the motions. Similar to Catholics, people who memorize prayers, but it’s not like that in the Church Of Christ”

He finally realized that the prayers he had been saying decades before were all ritual. Today, he looks at prayers with deeper meaning and purpose.

“Actually I don’t really know if I was praying that much then. Not till I was really taught how to pray. I felt the Holy Spirit in the worship service. And it was the words of God that were blowing me away in every Bible study. I was so amazed. I mean so many Bible studies I was crying like crazy because it was the first time I heard them. Because the words of God have so much power, and it was really amazing.”

Having been a member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) for decades now, there is one thing he truly lives by.

Maintaining the Relationship with God

“As I developed in my membership, prayer is the key to everything. And one of the reasons why is that we can’t be here in the chapel 24/7, but we need to maintain that relationship with our Father in Heaven at all times. And the key to everything is prayer and so it’s essential.”

Man vacuuming inside a the worship building

Today, Greg is the caretaker of the house of worship in Long Island City, New York. He takes every opportunity to pray inside the worship building.